By Reporter

Mr. Mackay Aomu the director of National Payments Systems Bank of Uganda at the SafeBoda Payments Launch

Uganda’s biggest ride hailing company SafeBoda last week on Wednesday 23rd March officially launched its payment service in an event that was held at Lazio’s bar and restaurant in Kololo. The launch was attended by a wide range of Uganda’s tech, government and finance community with the chief guest being the head of the Bank of Uganda National Payments (NPS) Systems Mr.Mackay Aomu.It should be remembered that the company acquired its NPS license from Bank of Uganda at the beginning of the year.

Speaking at the event Mr. Mackay commended the tremendous effort that SafeBoda has taken in their journey as a Ugandan tech start-up which first revolutionized the informal sector of boda bodas making sure that boda boda service men and women get digitized.

‘We were excited when we saw the SafeBoda app. It has been long overdue. As Bank of Uganda we hope to extend digitization to Agricultural and social services, this is the new industrial revolution and no one should be left behind.’ Mackay Aomu, the Director National Payments Systems at Bank of Uganda said.

SafeBoda as a company was launched over 7 years ago starting out with a mission to change the way people were consuming boda boda transport services. During that time there was hardly any company or boda boda service/group that was offering a helmet for the safety of their passengers. The entry of SafeBoda in the motorcycle taxi business brought a new horizon in the industry because for the first time people were able to see disciplined riders who would stop at the traffic lights and ride with care.

“Our ambition is to help Ugandans be able to receive better travel and payment services with safety, affordability and convenience as our key value propositions. Now on the SafeBoda app, a customer will be able to order affordable safe rides, pay their bills for so little, buy airtime and receive a cashback of 10% to mention but a few. Our mobile payments service is now open for all customers to use and enjoy the convenience and affordability that comes with it.” Said Ricky Rapa Thomson, Co-Founder and Director of Ops at SafeBoda

The founders of SafeBoda from left to right Ricky Rapa Thomson, Maxime Dieudonne and Alastair Sussock

Towards the end of last year SafeBoda was the company that received funding from Google’s 50$ million Africa Investment Fund which was to help the company scale its activities in both Uganda and Lagos. Part of the objectives of the fund was to see the company launch its fintech service and make an impact on digital financial inclusion.

With the launch of its mobile money payments, SafeBoda will now compete with the conventional fintech players like the telecoms and range of app based competitors in the same space. SafeBoda has in the recent past launched a number of services on the app like Pay Bills which caters for pay tv providers like StarTimes and Dstv, National Water & Sewerage plus the Umeme bills. What is unique is that the company put out an aggressive campaign charging only 1 shilling for every bill paid regardless of whether the bill amount is 1 million or two thousand shillings.

With the official launch of its payment services out of the way, we can now expect to see the company get more aggressive in this sector with campaigns targeted towards customers to try out the service.

The post SafeBoda officially launches its mobile money services to the public appeared first on BigEye.UG.

Bruce Melodie performs during Blankets and Wine

By Our Reporter

On Sunday, every bourgeoise party-goer in Kampala was at Lugogo Cricket Oval for the return of Blankets and Wine and its 10th anniversary.

Popular as a high-end picnic day, the event registered a great turnup from regular fun-loving folks, celebrities and socialites who showed up in colourful, classy and chic outfits along with mats, snacks and drinks to have a good time.

Organized by House of DJs, the Tusker Cider-sponsored celebration saw revellers get free samples of UBL’s latest product upon entry and engage in fun activities at their specially-curated hospitality tent. While there, guests indulged in games like Jenga, matatu, and a free throw basketball set up, which saw winners walk away with gift hampers.

A variety of vendor stalls were also on hand to deliver a lively and colourful variety of culinary delights.

For entertainment, the organisers lined up live performances from Ebrahim Soul’O, who kickstarted the afternoon with covers to Fave’s Baby Riddim, Juicy by Radio and Weasel, and a range of his own songs.

Some of the revelers arriving for Blankets and Wine.

Additionally, DJs Bankrobber and Alisha mashed up the crowd with an exciting array of mixes – guaranteed to keep everyone on their feet.

As the sun set, Cosign Yenze – supported by a percussion ensemble – ushered the crowd into the night, setting the stage for Kenya’s Nviiri the Storyteller.

Nviiri, who is signed to Sauti Sol’s Sol Generation records, serenaded the crowd with hits like Nikita, Overdose, Baba Yako and the crowd favourite – Pombe Sigara.

Rwanda’s Bruce Melodie also entertained the crowd with his Saa Moya, Katalina and more, before Zex Bilangilangi and Spice Diana drove the event to its conclusion.

The post How Blankets and Wine  went down appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Our Reporter

MTN Uganda has released a statement reaffirming the safety of their Mobile Money services. This after a message circulated on social media in which an anonymous person claimed the disappearance of Ugx 2.7Million off their Mobile Money wallet, alluding to insiders in the company having access to customers’ secret PINs.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the telco has dismissed the claims and assured customers that the Mobile Money PIN (Personal Identification Number) is secret information inaccessible to anybody inside or outside the company, except the customer.

“MTN Mobile Money Uganda Ltd would like to assure all its thirteen million active customers, that their Mobile Money PIN (Personal Identification Number) is secret information inaccessible to anybody inside or outside the company, except the customer.” The statement reads in part.

They further advised customers to always be cautious of fraudsters, and never share their PIN, code or the One-Time Password (OTP) with anyone as well as avoiding using simple PIN combinations that can easily be guessed; e.g., 0-0-0-0-0 or 1-2-3-4-5 in to strengthen security of their accounts.

“MTN will call its customers using Telephone number 031 212 0000 only. Should anybody call a customer on behalf of the Company with an alternative number, please consider them to be a fraudster and call our customer care helpline 100 for confirmation.” The statement further reads.

“The company has invested heavily in state-of-the-art secure mobile money platforms and robust cyber security IT-systems to ensure safety and security of our Mobile Money system and customer data. We ask all our customers to remain vigilant and immediately contact us via our customer service helplines in case of any attempt by fraudsters to access their Mobile Money wallets.” The statement concludes.

The post MTN reaffirms safety of Mobile Money services appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Our Reporter

Looks like blessings are overflowing from the chalice of Hip-Hop luminary, Navio. The rapper is the new talk of town after inking a multi-million deal with premium scotch whisky, Johnnie Walker.

The deal saw the towering figure being named the National Walker for the brand’s new campaign, To the Ones Who, which was debuted last week on Friday.

Now, word on the grapevine has it that the star of Ffumbe roots might have bagged himself a gig at Ruparelia Group’s Sanyu FM.

Word is that Navio might be taking over as the new host of the “Drive Show”. According to a poster that has been making rounds on social media, Navio is set to host his debut show this Wednesday (March 30th).

However, one is left puzzled as to whether the star will be replacing the show’s current hosts- Timothy Code and Jaluo, or he will be working alongside the duo.

When contacted, both Timothy Code and Jaluo were tight lipped about the extent of the rapper’s involvement with the show, but rather advised us to be on the lookout for an interesting show tomorrow.

“There isn’t much I can tell you about Navio’s involvement at Sanyu at the moment. He is a great rapper and I’m sure he can do The Drive show justice, but that’s all I can say at the moment,” said Code.

According to the poster, Navio is expected to be live on the Sanyu Fm Drive show starting 5pm tomorrow.

We will keep you posted.

The post Rapper Navio joining Sanyu FM? appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Reporter

Prince Nelson Prince Nelson  has never been happier. His long awaited new memoir, “Behind those eyes”, which is set for release is one that is set to put him on a higher pedestal among critical thinkers and readers.

Just when you would be lulled to think that “Behind those eyes” is a lovey-dovey story where someone bestows sentiments of attachment to another significant other, this is different. True, Prince Nelson is happily married with a wonderful wife, beautiful children and a booming career. However, ‘Behind those eyes’ is a story of perseverance amid adversary until he makes it to the top.

There is a hook about this book. As you read on, your attention is instantly grabbed. It reads like one of those award-winning series scripts that keep you wanting to find out what happened next.

 In the end, you will continue reading instead of scrolling past it. Prince Nelson’s subversive brilliance shines in new and unexpected ways with this masterpiece. He intersperses suspense and intricate diction to deliver his message the simplest of ways.

Ever wondered what goes on in the mind of an 8-year old who is captured and conscripted to fight among rebels? About the book. The book is simply about a young man growing up in the capital city of Uganda a third world country in the East of Africa. The young man is raised by a wealthy father and step mother and grows up not knowing who his real mother was.

At around the age of eight he is sent to a boarding school in a remote part of the country where a faction of a series of rebels that were fighting the government at the time invaded the school at took refuge and in turn started training students to join the rebellion. He was with friends recruited and trained to do rebel activities for almost seven months when peace talks were concluded When war ended, the young man went back home only to find his erstwhile wealthy father encompassed in a cloud of misery and abject poverty.

His siblings have been divided among (a norm in the African Society with the wealthy). The father would reinvent himself later in years but for the young Prince Nelson, the scars are for life. The war never left him the same. Was he destined for odd jobs? He doesn’t want to agree. He believes an inborn talent is the reason he has morphed into what he is today. Fast forward. He is in the United States of America today.

 The trials, travails and triumphs he spells out in the book can act as a guide to many in Sub Saharan Africa about chasing a dream and living it. The cultural exchange that took this young man to the United States saw a man growing to be a precious jewel in the societies he lived in, from being a job giver to society activist and representative of organizations, from helping out real estate development and giving exceptions to needy families on section 8 as it is known in the United States to giving tax sub sides to starter homes he built himself.

He did get a congressional medal of distinction form the US congress and during that dinner he confided to Congressman Doctor Michael Burgess that his desire was to help his own people by using the education, the wealth and love he had gotten from the American people. He later became an American Citizen and returned to his birth country Uganda to start charitable projects that see him engage himself in cancer prevention. 

Young people who have gone through similar troubles, adults who can learn from the book, immigrants. Successful people who need to tell others about their experiences so many can learn, relate and educate. The young, mature and adults, this is your book. Basic Plot Summary Like a seasoned writer, Prince Nelson engages a high-level synopsis of the plot so the audience gets the gist of what the story is about. He leaves out the climax or the ending of the book to avoid giving away spoilers so you don’t ruin the story for your audience.

 He does it in such a way that his audience This brings the audience to wait for the second book that narrates the journey after America since “Behind those eyes” was about his childhood and adulthood in the USA. Synopsis Simply saying a book was “good” or “bad”, or that you liked it or didn’t, isn’t helpful. Personally, even though I have not physically been to The ‘America, Prince Nelson took me there. The vivid language he used.

The vivid language instantly transported me into the world, but there were some huge plot holes that didn’t make sense. The writing was rough, with especially awkward dialogue, but I thought the premise of the story was brilliant. The book gives a chance for mass learning. It is a story both for the young and old with an iota of ambition. It demystifies the developed world but most importantly. It teaches many people in the Third world that having a deprived past is not the end of the world. It is a must read!

The post BOOK REVIEW: BEHIND THOSE EYES appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Our Reporter

The Walkers Tour which was flagged off last week during the launch of Johnnie Walker’s “To the Ones Who” campaign is set to hold its maiden instalment in Kampala this Saturday.

The Kampala edition will be headlined by songstress Sheebah Karungi and the brand’s recently appointed National Walker, Navio. The stars will perform alongside DJ Slick Stuart and DJ Sesse with Ms. Deedan as the master of proceedings.

Johnnie Walker Brand Manager, Christine Kyokunda spoke about the aim of the tour emphasizing that it is an inclusive opportunity for the brand to shine a light and bring in creatives and thought leaders from other parts of the country to realize the campaign’s agenda.

“This campaign is designed to celebrate every step that the youth today take and continue to take. We are beginning here in Kampala but are also taking it up country in major cities and towns to celebrate and shine a light on the youth there that have also exceedingly exemplified our Keep walking Mantra,” Kyokunda said.

“The queen herself Sheebah who in every bit and piece of her work has shown that consistency, hard work and being non-conformist will be our first headliner. She produces progress and reshapes culture for the better. There will be lots of Johnnie Walker cocktails and the best bottle offers,” she added.

The tour kicks off this Saturday April 2nd at the Garden City Rooftop.

The post Sheebah, Navio to headline Walkers Tour appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Reporter

Old Kampala ss is known for diverse cultures and Teenz of the different nationalities showcased their fashion, that is Indians, Ugandans, south Sudanese among others. This run way saw Doreen win Miss High school old Kampala ss and she’ll be battling with the other queens from the different schools for the national crown at the grand finale on 30th April at Kati Kati – Lugogo

Otherwise the day was action parked at OKSS as students showcased their talents in music, dance, rap and comedy .

The Hi skool kiromo was a great and entertaining as artists like Victor Ruz, The Baninas , Wembly Mo, Jowy Landa, City Don performed and entertained the students of old Kampala ss

MC Ollo, the host of this particular event kept encouraging the students to support their fellows at the grand finale of high school Kiromo

The post Teenz at Old Kampala ss showcase fashion diversity at the Hi Skool Kiromo appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Staff Writer

Research and policy initiatives focus on COVID-19 recovery and women’s economic empowerment

On March 30^th, 2022, the International Center for Research on Women (ICRW) held a policy dialogue with government officials from the Ministry of Gender Labour and Social Development, Equal Opportunities Commission, Parliament of Uganda, Uganda Bureau of Statistics, women’s groups in the informal sector, and civil society organisations. Those present discussed recent research and policy initiatives aimed at ensuring the wellbeing and labour rights for women in the informal sector. 

The dialogue is a part of a series of engagements following a multi-country scoping study by ICRW in 2021, which assessed the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on informal women workers in urban areas in Uganda and Kenya. The policy dialogue and study are part of ICRW’s work to advance women’s economic empowerment, efforts supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. This work is generating evidence to strengthen programmes for women working in the informal sector.  

“This is an important moment to address the multi-layered impact of COVID-19 on women in both formal and informal work in Uganda and Kenya – and around the world,” said Peggy Clark, CEO and President of ICRW. “This is also a pivotal moment when government, the private sector, civil society organizations, and women’s groups can come together to create solutions that address not only the current challenges but also the systemic and institutionalized inequities that perpetually serve as barriers for women in the world of work.”

ICRW’s COVID-19 impact study revealed that women in Uganda make up 75 percent of the labour force in the informal sector – due to ease of entry and exit, as well as the flexibility of informal work in accommodating women’s childbearing roles and care responsibilities. The research has further revealed that women’s vulnerability, unstable income flows, and pre-existing challenges – such as gender-based violence – increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Today’s dialogue set out to bring these challenges to the fore and urge policy actors present to address them and ensure social protections for women in the informal sector are formalized and meaningfully address the challenges women face. These initiatives were discussed, while other actions to address underlying inequities and longer-term solutions started to take shape.

“The conversation today was one of many going forward,” said Naome Wandera, ICRW Africa’s Senior Research and Evaluation Specialist. “In order to create change for women, their families and communities, and the local and global economies, we need all stakeholders in the room to determine solutions that work. Today’s conversation was a promising one, as everyone at the table has a vested interest in women’s economic empowerment and are committed to working together towards that goal.” 

Mr. Apollo Onzoma – Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development (Industrial Relations and Productivity) noted that the Ministry has launched a single registry for social protection in relation to data management in all sectors, and also encouraged everyone in the informal sector to get involved in the National Social Security Fund Act. 

Irene Nafungo of the Equal Opportunities Commission, a Government Agency responsible for protecting equal opportunities for all noted that they recognize that informal women workers are among the vulnerable and marginalized categories of the population because they are not socially protected and have limited access to funds. 

Speaker, Hon Flavia Rwabuhoro Kabahenda, Kyegegwa District Woman Member of Parliament said that the idea of social policy is a new paradigm that is taking the right course. ‘Social protection has three major issues including poverty, the vulnerabilities that come with poverty and the resilience that comes with it.’ She emphasized that currently, Government should work around resilience.

Hon Kabahenda noted that the Uganda Women’s Parliamentarians Association ensures that all women in all sectors and their needs/issues are catered for. They articulate issues concerning women to ensure they are gendered.

About ICRW

ICRW is a research institute focused on tackling challenges faced by women and girls worldwide, with offices in Washington D.C., Kampala, Nairobi, and New Delhi, and registrations in the United Kingdom and the Netherlands. ICRW’s work, anchored in the principle of human dignity, advances gender equity, social inclusion, and shared prosperity. https://www.icrw.org 

The post Ministry officials, Parliament members, women’s groups, and civil society organisations meet to discuss labour rights for women in the informal sector appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By BigEyeUg Team

The dark days continue to hit for city Pastor Aloysious Bugingo’s baby mama, Teddy Naluswa Bugingo.

The latest info on our desks is that High Court in Makindye (Family Division) has directed Teddy to surrender land titles, cars and marriage certificates which she is said to have taken away from husband estranged Pastor Bugingo.

In the Family Court session held on Thursday, March 31, 2022 Teddy was ordered her to surrender cards for three cars, seven land titles located in Wakiso, Mukono, and Kampala, their marriage certificates.

She was also ordered to pay Bugingo’s costs incurred in the divorce case file.

According to a liable source, Justice Joseph Murangira confirmed proof of Pastor Bugingo’s affidavit filed to backup his divorce application in the court.

These documents therefore stand valid for the court to prosecute a divorce for Bugingo and Teddy’s marriage.

Naluswa’s defense filed in her affidavit claiming to be sick and therefore sought more time to look for the demanded documents, was turned down by Justice Murangira, hence directing her to deliver back Pastor Bugingo’s stuff.

This comes in almost a week after Naluswa lost the application to keep her divorce case proceedings in the High Court until the case in Entebbe Chief Magistrate’s Court is decided.

Its now close to three years ever since Pastor Bugingo and wife Teddy Naluswa’s marriage battles surfaced.

Their battle has been endowed with countless of twists like Pastor Bugingo moving-on with another woman, Suzan Makula.

We will keep you posted

The post Court: Teddy Naluswa ordered to surrender cars, land titles, and marriage certificate to Pastor Bugingo appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Our Reporter

MTN Uganda awarded the artistes with the most downloaded CallerTunez in 2021 across different music genres in a colorful event held at the Kampala Serena Hotel on Wednesday.

The 2021 MTN CallerTunez awards were a culmination of the six-month-long award journey during which different artists with the most downloaded ring back tune and lucky customers who downloaded and used the tunes on their phones were rewarded with cash prizes on a monthly basis since July last year.

The artist with the most downloaded CallerTunez in a month from July to December 2021 was rewarded with UGX2million while the artiste in the Rising star category would take home UGX1million. Pallaso, Spice Diana, Liam voice, Martha Mukisa, Pia Pounds among others, are some of the artists that were rewarded in the previous months.

The 2021 MTN CallerTunez categories comprised of; Kadongo Kamu (Band), Afro Beat (Pop), Hip Hop (Lugaflow), R&B, religious and dance hall (raga & reggae).

The 2021 MTN CallerTunez winners for each category include; Chosen Becky’s Nesiimye, for the Kadongo Kamu (Band) Category, Pallaso’s Mallamu for the Afrobeat/Afropop category, Fik Fameika’s Lock won in the Hip-Hop/Lugaflow category.

Liam Voice’s Omwooyo took the mantle for the RnB category while Martha Mukisa’s Sango held the top position under Ragga/Dancehall. Under the religious category, Miracle Music Ministry’s ‘You have been faithful to me’ was the most downloaded gospel callerTune for the year 2021. Each of the winners walked away with 2.5Million shillings.

Liam Voice also scooped a second award for the Best rising star as chosen by the 8,858 people who voted for him. Spice Diana was voted as the best female artiste under the people’s choice awards having garnered 33,461 votes. Pallaso also bagged a second award after beating other male artistes to get named the best male artiste by the 25,672 people who voted for him. They each walked away with 3Million shillings.

Lorna Otieno MTN Uganda’s Senior Manager for Consumer Segments said the MTN CRBT awards seek to recognize the effort and work created by the local entertainment industry throughout 2021.

“We are glad to have successfully achieved our goal of honoring the talented artistes and content creators who have continuously spiced our lives with great music and messages that we enjoy as our caller ring back tunes. This is our way of saying Thank you. We hope to cultivate more digitization, appreciation, and consumption of our local content through recognizing and rewarding the artists’ efforts,” Otieno said.

The CallerTunez service is an offering of MTN where customers download their favorite songs or audio skits as ring back tunes that callers listen to while waiting for the customer to answer the phone.

The post Pallaso, Spice Diana emerge top in the MTN CallerTunez awards appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By BigEyeUg Team

Next Radio presenters Zahara Totto and Posha Aloyo could have delivered the best of the 2022 Fools’ Day treat.

On Thursday, March 31, 2022 a video made rounds on social media showing Zahara Totto and Posha appearing in a heated-up verbal war during their morning show dubbed ‘Next Chillout’ at the Next Radio studios.

The viral video sparked a huge attention, leaving majority of the public heading-nodding Zahara and Posha’s lethal tempers.

However, on Friday, April 1, 2022, the two shocked the public as they claimed the saga to have been just a prank, celebrating the April Fools’ Day.

“Guys we were kidding! 😂😂 Happy April Fools’ Day. Don’t be a fool like that next year. Nothing can separate us,” they said in a video posted on Posha’s Twitter handle.

We will keep you posted

The post Zahara Totto and Posha’s ‘fight’ treats neatly for the Fools’ Day appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Reporter

Shortly after the end of lock down, Silk Events became the talk of town. Word filled the ever so vibrant alleys of Kampala rumor-mills that the legendary events production and experience outfit had reinvented themselves. There was talk of importation of new production equipment.  The mill further spilled that a technical crew of sound engineers and experience curators from countries like South Africa, Kenya and USA had thrown into the works, a number of new innovations to revamp Silk Events’ output in every production facet.

And if the recently concluded 10th edition of Blankets and Wine is anything to go by, it seems apparent that Silk Events is back to its glory days.

The Silk Events team proved once again, that they are truly the leaders when it comes to staging, production and lighting.

“The stage sound was impeccable, and the overarching surround effect is something out of this world, something purely magical. How every thud of base is a healthy amount of resonation for the reveler’s ears and bodies, seems to be a result of complex mathematical calculations. They are the pros, and they brought out the big guns to silence all the previous small talk” an ecstatic reveler regaled a friend at the venue.  

The reveler was one of many who attested to the great musical experience put together by the mighty Silk Events, led by celebrated and internationally acclaimed sound engineer, Elvis Sekyanzi Wavamunno.

Stage performances from artistes like Bruce Melodie, Spice Diana, Zex Bilangilangi, Nviiri The Poet and DJs like Alisha, were great courtesy of the stage management that made everything look seamless and effortless.

There was also the talk that the new changes might have been from the appointment of a new management led by a new director we’ve only identified as Amon. Only months into the start of the new year and they have scooped most of the big events of the country. From Jam Fest, to the Makerere Fresher’s ball, Jersey Na Crocs, the Indian Entreprenuership Awards among other series of high profile and embassy shindigs.

The post Silk Events excels at Blankets and Wine appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Reporter

INTRODUCTION

Levels Will Be Having a Whole Month Celebrating & Giving Back to their customers at Levels Lounge, Restaurant & Health Club from 1st April to 30th To Show Appreciation to Clients.

BODY

What they are after is to make sure that their clients feel their main business pillars i.e. Fun, Delectable and Health. They have arranged Give aways to make sure they accommodate to their guests in the following assets.

30% DISCOUNT

The Biggest Give away they have this month will be on every third day of the week. i.e. Wednesday. Levels has set up an amazing 30 % discount on all alcohol Bottles excluding beers, Meals at the restaurant as well as health club packages. To keep in theme with their 3rd anniversary.

AS FAR AS DELECTABLE I.E. FOOD.

Levels has created a special menu named Levels Ramandhan Combo for their beloved Muslim guests. These Will Be Served here every evening for them to break their fast with. Several Delicious combos have been created and are available for tasting even tonight.

For Health, They have Created Several Discounted Packages every Wednesday of this month so our clients can enjoy our gym, sauna, massage parlor and spa at discounted prices every Wednesday of this month to bring them back to full health.

For the Loyal customers and “Future “Loyal Customers” They have created a Loyalty Program which in the beginning it will be free to sign up for. Which would ensure those who have signed up to enjoy Several Discounts on Food and beverages.

Lounge area is also going to have a VVIP Experience for the High rollers. Where they will enjoy VIP reserved Parking, Special priority seating, Personal Waitresses, free entrance on Paid nights and so much more exclusive perks.

Every Monday, they have the stress Clinic to help people Relieve Stress to start off their week on a good note. On that day Levels has Special Artist performances, Live Band, Comedians & Poets. Basically something for everyone to enjoy. Our next musical star performing on Monday is none other than BebeCool. Start making your reservations now.

The main idea of it all is to give back to their Clients and thank them all for all the continued support. They also have plan in the works to also give back to the community because when God Blesses You its only right you bless others as well.

The Main Anniversary Party to celebrate levels and end of Anniversary Month is Going to be on April 30th. SAVE THE DATE.

There is going to be Prize Giveaways, Guest Djs, Special Appearances from Some of our esteemed Celebrities and many more surprises. We insist you come celebrate with Levels as they embark on journey to keep serving you better.

For more information about Levels you can check out their website levelsug.com and also follow them on social media @levels_ug

The post LEVELS LOUNGE ANNIVERSARY MONTH CUSTOMER APPRECIATION STARTS THIS APRIL appeared first on BigEye.UG.

Patrick Salvado shares a light moment with Joan Semanda Kizza, the PR and Communications manager at MultiChoice Uganda during a watch party held on Friday at the MultiChoice Uganda offices in Kololo.

By Our Reporter

Your Sunday nights will never be the same again thanks to Patrick Salvado, one of the country’s biggest and most-loved comedic mind.

Premiering on 3 April at 8.00pm on Pearl Magic Prime (DStv Channel 148 and GOtv Supa Channel 305) is The Salvado Show, an original new production featuring celebrity interviews and comedy.

Each 45-minute episode will include celebrity conversations guided by Salvado’s easy-going and knowledgeable interview style; stand-up comedy sets from well-known names as well as up and coming comedians; and comedy skits which serve as social commentary on topical issues.

Being the first runner-up in MultiChoice Africa’s 2009 comedy competition Standup Uganda, this is a full circle moment for the comedian and MC Salvado, who will now headline his own show on one of Africa’s leading entertainment channels.

A qualified engineer by profession, the multifaceted Salvado (affectionately known as ‘The Man from Ombokolo’) has enjoyed an illustrious career since his debut in the mainstream. As an award winner, some of his stand-up work includes credits on shows such as Night of 1000 Laughs, Kings of Comedy (Kigali), Presidents of Laughfrica and the Glo Laffta Fest comedy tour.

Pearl Magic Prime Channel Head Margaret Mathore says: “Our content slate is always being updated and strengthened, and we take our audience feedback into cognizance. We’re pleased to have a talent the magnitude of Patrick Salvado’s join our line-up with a bold and important new show that shines the spotlight on serious matters through a humorous lens.”

She added: “As a channel, we will stay committed to giving our viewers content that brings a sense of pride, with local faces touching on topics that are near and dear to them in creative and entertaining ways. The way to empower our creatives and grow our industry is by providing them with platforms such as this one for their work and creativity to shine.”

At the watch party, Joan Semanda Kizza the PR and Communications manager MultiChoice Uganda unveiled the thrilling show and advised the audience to buckle up for an exciting journey with Salvador.

“The Salvador show will enable fans of the man from Ombokolo to enjoy his wit and personality on a whole other level. At MultiChoice Uganda we are dishing out entertainment shows such as these specifically tailored for our market and audience.” Semanda said.

“Our belief is that we will successfully deliver quality television programming that will keep our customers entertained at the end of the day,” she added.

Filmed in front of a live audience, featuring a live band and led by Salvado’s mastery of both black comedy and fly-on-the-wall observational comedy, The Salvado Show leaves no stone unturned and is set to be a hilarious serving that you won’t want to miss.

The post The Salvador show premieres this Sunday appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Our Reporter 

The Walker’s Tour officially kicked off on Saturday with the Kampala edition which was held at the Garden City Roof Top.

The show was headlined by Sheebah Karungi who delivered an electric performance, taking revelers through her musical journey with some of the biggest hits of her career. From ‘Nakyuka’ to ‘Kwata Bulungi’ coupled with riveting dance moves, the star was a sight to see.

The choice for Sheebah to headline the Kampala leg, and the first edition of the Walkers tour, came as no surprise as the ‘Ice Cream’ hit maker is one of many Ugandan stars that have exemplified the “Keep Walking” mantra.

Sheebah has always talked about her slow but steady journey from the ashes as a backup dancer, to one of the biggest stars and if not the biggest female artist of this generation.

Sheebah’s performance was preceded by the National Walker- Hip Hop Star Navio, who equally brought the house down with hits like ‘Ngalo’ and crowed favorite “Njogereza”.

The event was hosted by another Walker- the ever-energetic Ms Deedan, who engaged the audience throughout the show.

DJ Slick Stuart, also a Walker, and DJ Sesse kept the ecstatic crowd on their feet, as they enjoyed themselves on the evening.

The event was the first edition of the Walkers tour, that was born out of the
global “To the Ones who” campaign, that was launched recently, to celebrate and shine a light on the youth that have exemplified Johnnie Walkers “Keep Walking” Mantra.

The next stop for the Walkers tour will be Mbarara on Saturday April 23rd.

The post Sheebah, Navio kickoff the Walkers tour in style appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Reporter

It is that time of the year again.  The Easter celebrations are upon us.  All over town, Televisions and Radios will be beaming songs in celebration.  Once such song that is likely to get a fair share of airplay is ‘Mbatumidde’ which was released by  award winning singer  PRINCe Nelson.   

In his song Mbatumidde, for example, PRINCe Nelson’s lyrics invoke fond memories for anyone who has ever celebrated Christmas, Easter and EID in the ‘pre-soda-everyday-everywhere’ era, the ‘pre-rice-and-meat-everyday’ era, and the ‘pre-wardrobe-full-of-clothes’ era

The song has been released this Easter Season. Easter is one of the principal holidays, or feasts, of Christianity. It marks the Resurrection of Jesus three days after his death by crucifixion. For many Christian churches, Easter is the joyful end to the Lenten season of fasting and penitence.

In such a period, families, friends and people unite to have special holidays. Other board planes, tube or train to go and be with their loved ones in these holidays, so PRINCe Nelson decided to sit down and compose Mbatumidde song to bring together families and loved ones.

In Mbatumidde song, a Luganda word meaning’ Greetings ’a young man who has lived in the states for a long time gets back to the fonder memories while growing up in his native nation as such a season starts.

The song was written, directed and produced by Prince himself.   It was recorded at  Vault Studios Katy Freeway, Houston Texas engineered by Dave Williams former drummer of the OJs. 

The guitars were by Mike MacMahon, Drums by Dave Williams, Saxophones by late Gerald Gray (former saxophonist for Tina Turner) backups by Tamara, Tiffany, Latoya and Claudia Harrison of Brookshire Texas. 

Advisory for arrangement of instruments were done by legendary Calvin Owens and assisted by Late legendary Rapper Bushwick Bill. 

This  young man goes ahead to sing about the memories of home of great wild life, landscape, the aroma of culturally prepared food and most importantly the fact that all that is free.

The memory of the dusty, beautifully curved and paved roads that bring childhood memories, all the former places he grew up visiting and enjoying, all that brings back the memories of such a season.  It pains him so much that in the states he has to part away with money to make such lifetime memories. When he is singing these lines in the song, you simply don’t want him to stop. The song is such a tune!

The song then was remixed at JEEB Records by Engineer Crouch, more guitars by Mike Ouma and saxophones by Jose Sax. Luganda backups by Nikki and Joana Hearts.  Mixing and Mastering Engineer was Herbert Skills. He did it in Sterns Studios  UK while the video is directed by Kim XP.

With such memories in the young man’s mind, he sends his seasonal greetings to his family through a phone. It is emotional and painful though.

Even when the song starts playing, you immediately get the feeling of a holiday. As it goes on, then you conclude that East or West, home will always be the best.

Well, Mbatumidde is a composition of rock guitars, synthens, state of art Pianos well played around with. As I personally listen to this song, I am made to pick up the phone and send my warm greetings to my mother in the Village and wish her happy Easter.

Well, Mbatumidde’s song justifies the magic of such a Season. They never grow old. More peculiarly, though, such Season songs produced in the 1970s and the 1980s still rule the airwaves today, Prince Nelson as a singer is slowly taking over.

PRINCE Nelson songs are dusted off every Festive season and played on repeat until the New Year sets in. Only Boney M, the occasional Mariah Carey (O Holy Night) and George Michael/Wham! (Last Christmas) can punctuate Nelson’s humus groove.

Mbatumidde is one song off PRINCE Nelson’s album titled Road to Babylon. The Album has around 8 songs.

A section of radio stations in Kampala say that tonnes of domestically-produced Holiday songs don’t tell good Seasons stories but Prince Nelson changes this. He brings similar charm like the decades-old sounds of Boney-M or late Lutaaya.

It should be recalled that apart from legendary Lutaaya, Prince Nelson is the only Ugandan who released enduring Christmas memories in song.

 His lovely Azaalidwa song is a Christmas carol sung, celebrated and played on all TV, Radio stations globally since its release in 2006.  Prince Nelson is cleverly using nostalgia to make his music and legacy immortal.

In fact, a quick Google search for ‘Ugandan Christmas Songs’ pulls up Azaalidwa. This is a fact. The challenge he throws at Uganda’s artistes interested in creating a Christmas legacy, is to get a good team of professionals that can combine talent and give us very good Christmas songs

Well, have a happy Holidays! May you all send Mbatumidde song to all your loved ones.

About PRINCe Nelson.

I got my question answered when a couple of weeks ago, I was involved in an industry grapevine chat, where I asked the question: who is handling Prince Nelson lad?

The answer was: He manages himself. Good stuff – that certainly explains a lot. It explains why one of the most talented singer is set to  future more frequently on the charts.

PRINCe Nelson is freakishly good – and he features a wonderful diverse array of musical abilities.

PRINCe Nelson’s music career kicked off when he went to the US as a cultural exchange specialist with African Cultural Exchange, an organisation whose goal is to show Americans and Africans the beauty of both cultures. Nelson steadily grew into an established artist.

The post Mbatumidde; Prince Nelson shines in new season song, outs video  appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Reporter

In the Awards, the best of the best in Art/Entertainment, Entrepreneurs, as well as Science and technology  who have worked hard during 2021 will be nominated, voted and the winners around the continents will get awards in a unique event in Lusaka, Zambia.  After Zikomo Awards 2021 that has honored the best in African music, fashion, film, fitness, photography, comedy

Zikomo Awards Team has kept working hard for the season that is about to start, where it has find in many African Countries Brand Ambassadors.

Together with them, they have shown artists, entrepreneurs and others respect for their hard work. The upcoming season and letting the public nominate or you can nominate yourself then after reviewing you could be short listed after there will be a vote via website www.zikomoawards.com

Then the winners will be announced according to the vote, Zikomo Awards 2022 according to its team is going to be a unique and unforgettable event around the continent where it will boast an exhibit of recognizable faces from across the world.

The event will also be covered by international media such as BBC and BET, the awards live coverage will be a key component allowing viewers to have a chance to experience the event in the comfort of their living rooms.

Social Media will play a huge role at the Zikomo Awards event 2022 with social networks like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram helping to fuel an incredible amount of interests and promotions through nominees who enjoy social media following. Here are categories.

•             Best African Female Dancer

•             Best African Male Dancer

•             Best African Songwriter

•             Best African Video Director

•             Best African Fashion Designer

•             Best African Male Music Producer

•             Best African Female Music Producer

•             Best African DJ

•             Best African Actor

•             Best African Actress

•             Best African Media House

•             Best African Female Poet

•             Best African Male Poet

•             Best African Video Vixen

•             Best African Painting Artist

•             Best African MC

•             Best African Vocalist

•             Best African Pianist

•             Best African Guitarist, media personalities.

The post Zikomo Africa Awards 2022 2nd edition are on, Management announces appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Our Reporter

MTN Uganda, in partnership with the Makerere University Business School (MUBS) has launched a youth-centered entrepreneurship TV show dubbed Nsindika Njake, aimed at supporting the youth with business-related-skills to efficiently operate businesses.

Uganda currently has the second youngest population in the world with over 78% below 30 years. Youth unemployment in Uganda stands at between 64% and 70%, with up to 400,000 young people entering the job market annually for a mere 9,000 jobs.

Based on the above statistics, entrepreneurship remains the most viable way to provide immediate employment and job creation opportunities. Unfortunately, majority of the start-ups don’t make it through their second year due to a number of reasons including the lack of entrepreneurial skills.

While launching the Nsindika Njake program in a press conference held on Monday at the MTN Uganda Headquarters in Kampala, Somdev Sen, MTN Uganda’s Chief Marketing Officer said that the show would go a long way in addressing the unemployment issue that the youth are currently facing.

“Given the high rate of youth unemployment, many youths have taken the right path of starting small businesses but sadly, majority of them have not had the opportunity to get the skills required to effectively operate a business. We believe that this show will teach them how to navigate the day-to-day challenges that they face in their businesses and set them on a path to becoming better entrepreneurs,” Somdev said.

Nsindika Njake is a TV show featuring budding entrepreneurs running small enterprises commonly referred to as ‘hustles’. The show targets both the educated or skilled and the unskilled, with the goal of equipping them with the requisite business skills to successfully run their hustles.

The 12 participants (small business owners) of the show will be mentored and trained by the MUBS entrepreneurship and small business center and thereafter engage in solving business-related challenges based on what they will have been taught for a period of 12 weeks.

Dr Diana Nandagire Ntamu, the Director MUBS Entrepreneurship Innovation and Incubation Centre said the Nsindika Njake program is a very unique initiative focusing on both classroom and experiential learning aimed at harnessing the youths’ entrepreneurial potential.

“92% of the young people that join the workforce in Uganda go to the informal sector and a lot of them are running SMEs yet they have no experience. As MUBS, we pride in supporting those young people through capacity building and mentorship so I must say that I am very excited to have worked with MTN. While MUBS fosters entrepreneurship, MTN Uganda wants to support young people,” she noted.

Dr Ntamu further lauded MTN Uganda for this effort noting that tackling youth unemployment is a collaborative effort.

While the top 3 winners will walk away with assorted cash prizes, the grand winner will get a cash prize of 60 million. The prize money will be issued over a period of one year upon the achievement of key milestones.

The Nsindika Njake Show will air every Wednesday at 8.30 pm on local TV stations with a repeat on Sundays at the same time.

The post MTN Uganda launches entrepreneurship TV show appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By BigEyeUg Team

Songstress Veronica Luggya alias Vinka has extended her contract with Swangz Avenue.

Vinka put-pen-on-paper at the Swangz Avenue headquarters located at The Square building, Industrial Area, Kampala on Monday, April 4, 2022.

The signing was witnessed by Swangz Avenue directors Julius Kyazze and Benon Mugumbya, her personal manager Joel, lawyers and other officials from the label.

Swangz Avenue announced the development through their social media platforms, appreciating the “Thank God” singer for the trust.

“We have extended our management relationship with Sony Music Africa’s recording artist Vinka. Thank you Vinka for trusting us,” Swangz Avenue stated.

On her part, Vinka said; “Thank you so much Julius, Benon and the whole team. I wouldn’t be here if it were not Swangz Avenue. Thank you, Swangz Avenue, for all the years of nurturing 🤝🥂 to more wins.”

Swangz Avenue officially signed Vinka as a musician in 2017 replacing songbird Irene Ntale who had furiously exited the label.

Before being signed as a singer under Swangz Avenue, Vinka served as manager to Irene Ntale who at the time was signed under the same label.

In 2018, Vinka was signed to Sony Music Africa, one of the world’s most revered talent management and music distribution line.

Vinka is still a Sony recording artist with a running recording contract and Swangz Avenue remains the management label on behalf of Sony.

The post Vinka extends contract with Swangz Avenue appeared first on BigEye.UG.

By Reporter

It is reported that the highly esteemed Prophet also known as Major one made a surprise phone call to Prophet Brian Kagyezi last Sunday while he was ministering to his congregants.

While speaking to the Sunday congregation on phone call, Prophet Bushiri called on the church members and all those who follow the Prophet Kagyezi to heed to his voice as he encouraged them to prepare psychologically for what God is about to do in the church at Pneuma.

“I was praying this morning for my son Prophet Brian and God told me that I need to make this prayer over everyone who is in the congregation and inform you to prepare not only spiritually but also psychologically because a lot of shiftings will begin to happen and they are very important shiftings.,” said Major-1 Prophet Shepherd Bushiri

He continues saying, “Those people who will stand with my son, God will stand with you. This is the moment to understand that there is a new dimension in the ministry.”

“I release the grace and I pray that everybody who is receiving today that your life will change, that a new dimension will happen. I bless you and I pray for you in Jesus’ name. I release the anointing and let the anointing move and touch you, let it bring a new shift, let the anointing visit you in Jesus’s name I pray Amen. I love you all, and God bless you, Shalom” said Bushiri.

Speaking to the head of Public Relations of Prophet Brian Kagyezi Ministries Victor Anecho, confirmed that the Malawi based Prophet did make the phone call during church service.

Mr. Anecho said,” his message to Prophet Brian Kagyezi and the church was very refreshing and very timely because Pneuma Word is moving to hold one of the biggest Prophetic revival meetings in the city like this nation has never seen before and God just confirmed his word through a major Prophet, Prophet Shepherd Bushiri.

Prophet Shepherd Bushiri is the founder and President of Enlightened Christian Gathering International Ministries and according to Prophet Kagyezi’s website, Bushiri is reported to be his spiritual father.

The post Malawi based Prophet Bushiri makes a surprise phone call to Prophet Kagyezi in church Service appeared first on BigEye.UG.